Record spike in new charity numbers, as changes to NFP tax exemption reporting kick in

The Australian charity landscape saw record growth last financial year, with 4,621 new charities registered — the largest annual increase since the ACNC’s inception in 2012, largely driven by new reporting requirements for not-for-profits claiming income tax exemption. The ACNC’s annual report revealed a sector now worth $222 billion in revenue and powered by 3.77 million volunteers, though smaller charities continue to struggle financially, capturing just 0.1% of total sector revenue.

ACNC Commissioner Sue Woodward reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to maintaining transparency and public trust through its Charity Register, which received over 2.1 million searches this year. The report also noted a rise in concerns about charities, with 1,640 complaints lodged, some of which appeared coordinated. Despite these challenges, the ACNC’s focus remains on building confidence, accountability, and sustainability across Australia’s growing for-purpose sector.